When you go into the doctor's office because you have pain in a particular area of your body, the doctor will ask you to look at the pain chart. You know those faces; happy, sad, in extreme agony.

And each of the faces has a rating, numbering from 0 to 10. 0 meaning you have no pain at all, and 10 indicating that you are in extreme pain; your pain level has hit its threshold and anything more would be absolutely unbearable.

Why does the doctor ask about your pain level? The answer is simple; they have no other way of knowing how much pain you are in.

We have all experienced pain in our lives, whether it is physical or emotional. We know what pain is, and we know when we are at our threshold.

It isn't always easy to communicate to others how much pain we are in. And, even more difficult to do so with those who feel the need to compare, based on something they previously experienced.

The problem with comparing is that no one knows your pain level. Each of us is different, and every one of us experiences and feels pain differently. Rather than comparing, let's show compassion for those who share their pain with us.

And remember, there is only one who understands our pain completely. When the world disappoints us, let's remember to confide in Him.

Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:4-5

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Rita Viselli is a single mom and the founder of The Single Moms’ Ministry®. She is passionate about starting such ministries in churches around the world, and believes God has called her to be a voice for single moms and their children. Contact her,or visit The Single Moms’ Ministry to learn more.